Transmission repairs and replacements can be inconvenient, expensive and quite stressful. But it beats the alternative. Here are five signs of transmission trouble from our service experts at DCH Toyota of Oxnard.
Slippage. Although replacing a transmission can be expensive, you’re putting much more at risk than money by driving a car with a transmission that allows slippage. Slippage occurs when your vehicle switches gears without you manually shifting or the car’s computer automatically shifting. This is easily recognized when driving a manual shift vehicle. If you’re driving a vehicle with an automatic transmission, be alert to a change in engine noise pitch or a seeming lack of power, such as poor acceleration. If you suspect slippage, get your car’s transmission inspected immediately.
Delayed engagement. When it comes to your car’s transmission, a delayed engagement is much more serious than the plot of a romantic comedy. It means your car isn’t going into the proper gear when you shift. If, for example, you shift your vehicle from park to drive, followed by a long pause as you rev the engine to give it gas, you may have a problem with the transmission. It may also be a problem with the vehicle’s computer system, so make sure to get it checked out immediately.
Grinding or shaking. Your car’s not supposed to make a grinding noise when you shift gears. It’s not supposed to shake either, nor is it supposed to make a thud or clunking noise. If it’s doing any of these things, there’s a good chance you have a problem with the transmission or the clutch. Once again, if your car is experiencing these noises while shifting gears, do not ignore it. Get it inspected and repaired before it leads to bigger problems. A noisy transmission while in neutral is normally not as serious and can sometimes be corrected by adding or changing transmission fluid.
Leaks. Speaking of fluids, your transmission fluid should remain in the transmission. A leaky transmission should be looked at and repaired immediately. It’s a much less expensive option than replacing the entire unit, but if left untreated, it can lead to having to replace the entire transmission. If the leaking fluid is bright red in color and somewhat clear with a sweet smell, the fluid’s fine and you probably just need to fix the leak. If it’s dark red or has a burnt smell, it’s time to get the transmission flushed as well.
Check Engine light. The “Check Engine” light on your dashboard could be just about anything associated with the engine and it may just mean you’re due for an oil change or tune up. If, however, the “Check Engine” light comes on when you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms of a faulty transmission, you should get it diagnosed immediately. Your dealer’s shop will have all the diagnostic tools necessary to figure out the problem, and the wherewithal to fix it.
